Roger Lee Townson, Possession of Firearm by Prohibited Person, West Virginia 2026

Huntington, W.Va. resident Roger Lee Townson, 57, has pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person in a federal gun crime. This crime is a serious offense that puts the community at risk, and we are committed to holding those responsible accountable.

Townson’s guilty plea stems from a search warrant executed at his residence on March 25, 2025. During the search, law enforcement officers discovered a Glock model 43 9mm pistol in Townson’s bedroom. Despite knowing he was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to prior convictions for forgery and domestic battery, Townson continued to break the law.

Townson’s prior convictions in Cabell County Circuit Court on March 10, 2000, for forgery, and in Cabell County Magistrate Court on June 14, 2010, for domestic battery, made him ineligible to possess a firearm or ammunition. However, he failed to respect this prohibition, putting the safety of his community at risk.

The United States Attorney’s Office has announced that Townson faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. This punishment is a stark reminder that breaking the law has consequences.

United States Attorney Moore Capito commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Huntington Police Department for their role in bringing Townson to justice. Assistant United States Attorney Lesley C. Shamblin is prosecuting the case.

Townson is scheduled to be sentenced on October 5, 2026. The community can rest assured that those who break the law will be held accountable for their actions.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative to protect our communities from violent crime. By working together, we can make a difference and keep our communities safe.